After back-to-back trips to the National League Championship Series, the Dodgers were expecting for better than an 80-82 record. Photo by Jeff Lewis

By Tamara Latta

Sentinel Sports Writer

After failing to make the postseason, the Dodgers were dismissed by the bell on Sunday. As I entered the locker room on before the game; there were player bags that were already sealed and packed up.

Now before we start bashing the Dodgers for not making the playoffs, let’s take a look at some of the excruciating pain that could have caused the meltdown. Inconsistency was a major blow.

Pitching became a riddle in Los Angeles. Going into the season speculation about pitching raised eyebrows, but the organization believed they could possibly win games with the pitching staff they already had on board. It’s safe to say everyone was being naïve to think this would happen, including me.

One thing we do have to consider is that the Dodgers were young, and they just could not find their identity. They just couldn’t roll the dice without crapping out this year. Pitching, Defense or Offense just wasn’t consistent enough.

It’s hard to be declined from a playoff run after they competed in the National League Championship Series for two consecutive years. Center fielder Matt Kemp isn’t appeased with the early release for down time.

“It’s really not a good feeling not making the playoffs,” said Kemp. “But you can’t think about that, you have to go put in hard work and come back next year with a different mindset”.

Things were so upside down in Dodger nation, I’m not sure whose job is in safe. I think just about every player on that roster is tradable. I will say that Clayton Kershaw and Matt Kemp may be beneficial to the team. I’m giving these two the benefit of the doubt. But to be honest, there are going to be a lot of transactions this summer involving the Dodgers.

Dodgers Catcher Russell Martin contract is up after this season, and he expressed his interest in the organization before packing up and leaving the stadium.

“Of course I want to be with the Dodgers next year” Martin said. “This is all I know, but there is no word from my agent about any talks with the Dodgers”.

The Dodgers finished the 2010 season 80-82. I know that wasn’t a good record but it could have been worse. I don’t think fans should give up just yet; they have a bright future ahead of them. Next year players will be more matured and under a new contract. I’m already favored by fortune just thinking about the 2011 season.

With a new boss in charged, the boys in blue will have a fresh start next season. If you look at their roster, you’ll find potential. They have solid players who can do some damage. But I honestly believe after covering the Dodgers this season, they needed another voice in that ball club. Joe Torre was a great Manager and you can’t take that away from him, but leadership and motivation was lacking in that locker room. Don Mattingly, the new manager, is well respected around that ball club and his voice will make a huge difference in Los Angeles.

“He will most definitely bring a positive atmosphere in this locker room” said Kemp.

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